I took this (or Roaccutane as it was called here in Uk then) when I was approx 16/17/18 ish. Tried loads of other stuff before hand. It did work but at what cost?
There are/were people here trying to get a group lawsuit against the makers saying they didn't do enough testing or warn people that it can give you depression permenantly, even after you've finished taking it.
My story: Took it. Had to have regular blood tests to check hadn't damaged my liver (Vitamin A based so can damage liver if have too much). Caused my skin to get very dry and especially my lips. Had to use vasaleine(petroleum jelly) on them to keep them moist and stop craking and splitting painfully, then bleeding. Made me very moody, on top of usually teenager stuff, led to depression although not diagnosed until a few years after, but looking back I was suicidally depressed then. Caused problems with achey painful joints. Again not aware of at time but I recon done permenant damage as mine are still dodgy now over 12 years later.
Cleared up the acne though.
Would i take it again if in same situation?? Hmmm tough. Yes because acne was affecting quality of life, no confidence, no chance of getting anywhere with any girl. No - I've been on anti-depressants since 1998 about 2 years or so after finished taking it. I've got bad joints.
Other ways to improve skin?? If I'd known about tea-tree oil then that would have been great. Sunlight and fresh air, regular washing of greasy areas, drink water and avoid fatty and sugary foods. Don't squeeze or pick because of the scars.
I.